Inter Miami has quickly become the center of transfer rumors, with each new link generating excitement among fans. The latest buzz hints at a possible reunion between Lionel Messi and his former Barcelona teammate, Neymar. While this pairing is certainly appealing on paper, some voices are advising club co-owner David Beckham to think twice about the move. The reason? Inter Miami may need defensive stability more than another high-profile forward.

The Messi and Neymar duo dazzled in European soccer with their incredible chemistry, leading Barcelona to remarkable success. Jeff Carlisle, an ESPN analyst said on the Futbol Americas podcast, “I don’t think Neymar is what they need right now. I mean, I think they need to shore up the back line and get some additional quality back there.” Bringing Neymar on board alongside Messi could appear to be the final piece in Inter Miami’s offensive strategy. However, some analysts and fans argue that the focus should be on strengthening the defense instead. While adding another star would boost visibility and ticket sales, it might not address the team’s most urgent needs on the field.

A significant argument against pursuing Neymar is the current condition of Inter Miami’s defense. Throughout the last season, Miami’s defensive issues were evident, often leaving Messi and the forwards with too much to handle. For Inter Miami to compete consistently in the MLS, securing defensive reinforcements may be more crucial than adding another attacking talent. The challenges don’t end there; Miami would also need to navigate the league’s salary cap and roster regulations, making it a complex task to fit Neymar in without losing other key players.

Jeff also opined, “Miami always seems to step right up to the line of the salary cap and the roster rules. And then they kind of find themselves in situations where they’re dealing from a position of weakness. And so I think that’s what could make it especially difficult in this off-season.”

Adding Neymar would put a strain on Miami’s budget. The team is already close to the salary cap, and bringing in Neymar could push them over the limit. This tight financial situation would weaken their negotiating power, potentially forcing them to sell young players to accommodate Neymar. Fans, who are hoping for a long-term strategy, would likely be unhappy with this decision. 

Meanwhile, another frat-bro of Messi is also facing a doubtful situation when it comes to his Inter Miami stint.

Luis Suarez faces uncertain future at Inter Miami

Luis Suarez’s time at Inter Miami has been a mix of prolific goal-scoring and exposed vulnerabilities. During the regular season, he was unstoppable, netting 20 goals and rekindling his on-field chemistry with Lionel Messi. However, as the intensity increased during the 2024 playoffs, concerns about Suarez’s age and limited mobility became more apparent, especially in a demanding league like the MLS. 

His struggles were highlighted in Miami’s playoff series against Atlanta, where, despite some strong moments, his lack of mobility and waning physicality were exposed, especially as he struggled to press and track back defensively. At 37 years old, and dealing with chronic knee problems, Suarez struggles to maintain a high level of performance for a full 90 minutes. This makes it challenging to justify a high salary or a designated player slot. Nevertheless, his experience and the chemistry he shares with Messi provide the team with distinct advantages.

He signed a one-year deal to join Messi, and his current salary doesn’t reflect his experience or reputation. While he has shown interest in staying for another season, Inter Miami must weigh whether they can afford to keep him under the league’s strict salary cap without giving him a designated player slot.

There is a possible way ahead if Suarez stays but changes his role. He would have to agree to less playing time and potentially a lower salary, allowing Miami to enhance its roster with younger players to stay competitive in the MLS. On the other hand, Suarez might think about retirement, which would provide Miami the opportunity to invest in players who can better support Messi in a more balanced team.